Property Development Add Value To Your Development

Date Published:

18/06/2009

Which alterations will add value - or at least saleability - to your property development, and just how far should you go?

By Sarah Jagger

When it comes to property development, research is all important. Before you begin any work on the house you've bought, and ideally before you've even bought it, do lots of background work to find out the following. What's selling well in the area? Three bedroomed houses? Homes with garages? Houses with loft conversions? What are they selling for - and what's the difference in value between the most beautifully developed and the house you're interested in? What market will you be aiming at and what are these people's needs? What do local estate agents advise?

Once you've got all the answers and feel satisfied that you are developing your property sensibly, talk to the planning department to check your plans would be approved, set a realistic budget, including extra money for any unforeseen (but inevitable) jobs and a schedule. Then, do your utmost to stick to these.

Exterior Makeovers

First impressions always count. 'Any estate agent will tell you how many people don’t even bother going in to view a house that they dislike on arrival,' says Hugo Tugman founder of Architect Your Home.

So start by improving the curb appeal. 'Opt for a consistent window design, a well-proportioned entrance and a strong roofline. These will give buyers the impression of a house that feels complete and is a sound investment,' says Tugman. 'Then change casement windows for sliding sash windows, replace concrete wall tiles with hand-made terracotta and build a porch to give the house self-importance,' he adds.

If your house is really ugly, there are companies that will completely transform your house's exterior. Get ideas at Back To Front Exterior Design.

For More Information

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